Photography project in Mexico begins

Sept 3, 2023. Oaxaca, Mexico

Once again it’s just one-half of the Red Tandem team this outing, but I promise that will be changing in October. Today, though I am heading back to Oaxaca for a dual purpose photographic project with retired priest Fr Stephen Dudek, as we explore one of Grand Rapids’ sister parishes, and viisit efforts to protect migrants fleeing Central America.

I arose very early on Saturday, 4 am, and Alice drove me to the airport. The newly renovated airport section was sparkling and efficient. I got through security as fast as ever. Flights were unremarkable to Atlanta and Mexico City, with only minor inconvenience of sitting next to a large German man. Exiting the plane in Oaxaca had the pleasan aspect to opening both front and aft door and just exiting directly onto the tarmac.

I was met by Stephen and a host family who took us to a wonderful seafood restaurant. I had the requisite welcome drink of mezcal, but only one and enjoyed Seafood cocktail typical of Mexico

After settling into my room, I walked north about 12 blocks to see old friend Margaux, a French native, who was participating in a 20 year anniversary for the block print art studio that she lives in. She does amazing work encouraging prisoners with art and shared a book documenting the long term work of another French artist with a prisoner on death row in the US. Downstairs a cumbia band played and people drank beer, mezcal and an nonalcoholic drink, sweetened hibiscus tea. Friends and couples danced on the open tile dance floor surrounded by art and a few accent bulbs.

I couldn’t stay long as I was tired and headed back to the host family. The familiar streets and corners were a pleasure as I was walking through areas from Alice and my last trip here in 2019. Music poured out from some houses. Shopkeepers closed up their stores. Couples walked hand in hand or embraced. It was good to be back in Oaxaca.